June 10, 2011

I'm Using AutoCAD WS, Are My Files Safe?

Thanks to everyone who joined me for Wednesday’s AutoCAD 2012 What’s New webinar. I hope you enjoyed it.

During the presentation I went over the new 2012 AutoCAD WS feature. AutoCAD WS is a free web based CAD drawing editing and collaboration tool. Users don’t even have to own a seat of AutoCAD to use it; they just need to create a WS account and have access to the internet. AutoCAD WS even goes a step farther and can access dwg files with mobile devices through Autodesk developed apps for the iPhone, iPad, and Android devices. So how does this all work?

An AutoCAD 2012 user will upload a dwg file to a central server over the internet. Once the file has been uploaded, the dwg originator can specify users and permissions. Now all users can collaborate and edit the drawing simultaneously or individually then save their work and download the file if need be.

A common question I get after showing AutoCAD WS is, “How secure are my files once I’ve uploaded them to Autodesk?”

This is a completely valid question. Especially since we’ve entered this new shift in computing; from saving and working with files local to our computer or private network to files stored in the “cloud” hosted at another location to be accessed by multiple users through multiple devices.

Once a drawing is uploaded using AutoCAD WS the file is stored on Amazon S3 servers (SAS70) Type II certified. These are the same servers Amazon.com uses. The drawings you upload can only be accessed by your username and password. All communication between the server and your internet browser uses 128bit SSL encryption. Just for reference this is the same encryption type my bank uses when I do my online banking.

So, in short, yes AutoCAD WS is very secure. Feel free to take a look for yourself.

Derek Wielkopolski
Technical Support Manager/Application SpecialistDerek holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Roger Williams University, Rhode Island. He is experienced working within the AEC industry from concept design through construction administration for both small and large scale projects. As Ideate’s Support Manager he ensures a timely and quality response to support requests and questions. Follow Derek on Twitter: @dwielk

Ideate, Inc., is a leading Autodesk solutions provider, recognized as a Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk's highest level of authorization. Employing top registered architects, engineers and designers, Ideate offers companies in the areas of building, infrastructure and multimedia Autodesk software, training, support and custom consulting services. Ideate Authorized Training Centers are located in San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, Portland and Seattle.